Prepare to be captivated by the extraordinary journey of Bedros Shetilian, a renowned maestro who has traversed the realms of music and spirituality, leaving an indelible mark on the world of conducting.
For Bedros Shetilian, music is more than a language; it is the most natural way to express himself. Although his journey as a musician began at the age of 18, his innate connection to music has been ingrained in his soul since birth. Bedros embarked on his musical odyssey as a singer, immersing himself in school choirs from an early age. These formative experiences led him to explore music and piano lessons, laying the foundation for his artistic aspirations.
At the age of 20, Bedros was admitted to college, commencing his studies with a focus on singing. However, it was within the embrace of a professional musical environment that he discovered his true passion: choral conducting. This revelation unfolded in the vibrant city of Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, where Bedros found his calling and pursued his craft with unwavering dedication.
Seeking to deepen his understanding of orchestral conducting, Bedros ventured to St. Petersburg, Russia. There, he became a student at the conservatory, studying under the tutelage of the esteemed Yuri Temirkanov, the Music Director of the St. Petersburg Philharmonic. Bedros’s pursuit of excellence extended beyond the conservatory walls. He regularly attended classes led by the legendary teacher Ilia Musin, eager to learn from the maestro and refine his craft.
Bedros Shetilian’s professional debut as an orchestral conductor unfolded while he was still a student. He graced the stage first in England, conducting the Bardi Orchestra of Leicester, and then with the revered St. Petersburg Philharmonic. Bedros’s talent and unique approach garnered the attention and support of the orchestra, leading to an invitation to conduct a concert in St. Petersburg. The journey of his career then led him to work extensively in Russia, touring Europe and leaving an indelible musical imprint. Notably, a Swedish newspaper, “Barometern Oland,” hailed Bedros’s performance with the Moscow Chamber Orchestra as “absolutely world-class,” affirming his exceptional talent.
Beyond his musical prowess, Bedros harbors a profound interest in faith and philosophy. Alongside his career as a conductor, he embarked on a spiritual and theological journey, attending the Catholic College in St. Petersburg. Bedros’s quest for spiritual enlightenment ultimately led him to become a priest for the Armenian Apostolic Church, one of the oldest Churches in the world. This unique dual role as a conductor and a clergyman brings depth and richness to his interpretations, enabling him to connect profoundly with sacred music and composers who explored philosophical themes.
In 2003, Bedros Shetilian ventured to the United States, continuing his musical career and leaving an indelible impact on the musical landscape. He founded, managed, and served as the Music Director of The Troy Orchestra in upstate New York between 2007 and 2012. Throughout his journey, Bedros has returned to Russia and Armenia on numerous occasions, conducting with unwavering passion. Among his recent achievements, his concert with the London Mozart Players in the fall of 2021 showcased his artistry and propelled him to victory in the Music and Stars Awards Competition, cementing his status as a remarkable conductor.
Bedros Shetilian’s remarkable story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, resilience, and unwavering dedication to one’s dreams. Despite nearing the age of sixty without achieving widespread recognition, Bedros’s unwavering commitment to his craft continues to fuel his ambition. As he embraces the notion that conducting is the profession of the second half of life, he draws inspiration from his musical predecessors and upholds the belief that maturity and dedication are the keys to greatness.
Recognized with the highest Diamond Award at the online Royal Musical Competition earlier this year and now receiving the esteemed Best Conductor and Gold Star awards in the Music and Stars Awards Competition, Bedros Shetilian’s accomplishments are a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering dedication. This tremendous honor will undoubtedly have a profound impact on his career, further propelling him toward a future marked by musical brilliance.
As we celebrate Bedros Shetilian’s journey, we are reminded of the transformative power of perseverance, passion, and the unwavering pursuit of one’s dreams. Bedros’s musical prowess, spiritual insights, and commitment to his craft make him a true maestro, leaving an indelible mark on the world of conducting.